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We can say that the match was opened to the world by Gwyneth Paltrow, who once told that she decided to replace coffee with this tonic drink. And away we go – match lovers are no longer looked at as sectarians, drinks are brewed with match powder, used in cooking and the beauty industry.
Matcha, or matcha as it is called, is a powder made from specially grown green tea leaves that is brewed into a bright green drink. He hails from China, however – known there since time immemorial – the match has lost its popularity. But in Japan, on the contrary, he fell in love and became an integral part of the tea ceremony. Several years ago, the match was discovered by Europe, and now – and Ukraine.
How Matcha Is Different From Other Green Teas
Matcha bushes are placed in the shade 20 days before harvest. Weak lighting slows down the growth of leaves, making them darker due to higher levels of chlorophyll and amino acids. This growing process creates a special biochemical composition that endows matcha with a variety of nutrients.
What are the varieties
- Ceremonial… Sweet and delicate taste with a touch of umami. It is this variety that is used in Buddhist ceremonies.
- Premium… A variety with an intense flavor and a slight bitterness.
- Culinary… A variety typically used for desserts and smoothies, with a bright, somewhat tart flavor.
Why is a match useful?
1. It is a powerful antioxidant. It surpasses in its effect all the generally recognized leaders with antioxidant qualities (blueberries, prunes, blackberries, broccoli, cabbage).
2. Activates the brain. Promotes concentration of attention, quality of information perception, concentration and at the same time relieves nervous tension.
3. Increases immunity. Matcha tea is a natural antibiotic. Thanks to this and the large amount of vitamins A and C, a person becomes healthier.
4. Lowers blood cholesterol. Experts note that the level of “bad” cholesterol decreases, and the level of “good” cholesterol rises in those who drink matcha tea regularly.
5. Increases thermogenesis (by 40%). They drink matcha tea for weight loss because it helps burn fat without harming the body. This is the difference between matcha and other similar products (green coffee, ginger). In the tea itself, the number of calories is close to zero.
6. Slows down the aging process of the skin. It is considered the elixir of youth and health due to its high content of antioxidants and polyphenols.
7. Reduces the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. Men are more likely than women to suffer from these ailments. Doctors report an 11% decrease in the propensity for heart disease in men if they are fans of matcha tea.
8. Increases energy, endurance. Moreover, unlike coffee and other energy drinks, it increases the level of clean energy, without excitement and pressure increase. This state lasts up to 6 hours after a cup of green matcha tea. There is almost no caffeine in it, the energy effect is achieved through L-Thianine.
9. Prevents the appearance of stones and sand in the kidneys. The beneficial properties of tea are aimed at cleansing the body as a whole. Heavy metals and toxins are naturally removed from it. Therefore, the kidneys, liver, gallbladder are protected from clogging with harmful deposits.
10. Possesses anticarcinogenic properties. Suppresses the formation of cancer cells. This is due to the content in tea of a significant amount of vitamin C and polyphenols (catechins EGCG).
11. Soothes, relieves stress, improves mood. The valuable substance L-Theanine in tea provides for the production of dopamine and serotonin. Natural amino acid helps to cope with stress, despondency, promotes relaxation, peace, emotional stability.
And this tea also prevents the development of varicose veins, relieves hangover syndrome, normalizes blood pressure, protects teeth from caries when added to toothpaste.
How to make matcha tea
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of matcha tea (you can buy matcha tea in our store)
- 1/4 cup water temperature 80 degrees
- 3/4 cup hot milk
- sugar or honey to taste, or maple syrup
Preparation:
1. Heat water to 80 degrees, or boil and let it cool. The main thing is not to use boiling water.
2. Pour the water into a cup of matcha tea and stir well until smooth.
3. Usually, a special bamboo chasen whisk is used for stirring. But if you don’t have one at hand, try stirring it well with a spoon or fork. Alternatively, use a French press, which works well for mixing too.
4. Separately heat the milk, pour into a separate French press and whisk to create an airy froth.
5. Add pre-mixed match with water and sugar or honey to taste.